Title

Author

Date of Award

12-2008

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Occupational Therapy

Access Setting

Masters Thesis-Campus Only

Abstract

This study aims to examine the relationship between lack of professional identity in the field of occupational therapy and levels of occupational burnout. In the United States, the cost of stress and stress related problems is estimated to be in excess of excess of $300 billion annually (American Stress Institute 2003). Health professionals have been identified as a high-risk group for job related stress and burnout (Payne & Firth Cozens, 1987; Maslach, 1982). This study will build on existing literature to examine the links between burnout and the development of "professional values" as well as the board scope of Occupational Therapy which may act as a hindrance to establishing a concise and well recognized professional identity. This research will identify some of the issues that the occupational therapy profession will have to address in order to establish a strong and healthy work force.